Publications
Explore an archive of Hafed Al-Ghwell’s publications, ranging from academic papers to opinion pieces and columns. The archive spans Hafed’s contributions to the fields of Middle Eastern and North African studies, particularly in the fields of security, migration, energy, sustainability, and the nuanced dynamics of US and EU foreign policies in relation to the region.
Gulf nations can play a key role in restoring stability to Sudan
The recent escalation of conflict in Sudan has caught many by surprise, highlighting the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent further destabilization. As the international community focuses on evacuations, Gulf nations have a crucial role to play in averting a larger crisis.
The sad inevitability of the return to arms in Sudan
In Sudan, recent violent clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces have sparked fears of civil war. Deep-rooted political turmoil, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic hardships, has fractured the Transitional Sovereign Council.
Tunisia’s decision to snub IMF deal is both reckless and bizarre
President Kais Saied's rejection of IMF-mandated economic reforms, despite Tunisia's dire financial situation, could lead to a cascade of socioeconomic challenges. Saied's refusal to accept IMF assistance jeopardizes Tunisia's ability to manage its fiscal deficit, control inflation…
In Iraq, a resilient Al-Sudani forges on
Amid reflections on the 20th anniversary of the US-led invasion of Iraq, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's government faces a turbulent landscape. While Iraq holds vast potential, it grapples with multifaceted challenges hindering progress, including economic woes, political tensions…
Can the UN’s new plan for Libya overcome the ‘chicken or egg’ paradox?
The recent plan by UN envoy Abdoulaye Bathily to revive Libya's political process amid ongoing turmoil has garnered attention. The proposal aims to organize elections this year through an electoral steering committee comprising diverse Libyan stakeholders.
Discourse on Libya remains fixated on the lethal and the lucrative
The discourse on Libya often overlooks the role of its finance and banking sector in perpetuating dysfunction. Political elites resist reforming the sector, which is plagued by opacity and corruption. The central bank, despite being tasked with ensuring public services and economic integrity…
The Lebanon contagion: Record debt levels are intensifying the region’s challenges
In the past decade, the Arab region has experienced a surge in borrowing, leading to record levels of foreign debt accumulation. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, volatile oil prices, and political instability have exacerbated economic challenges in countries like…
Tunisia’s descent into madness continues
Tunisia's journey from the promise of the Arab Spring to its current turmoil highlights the complexities of democratization it faces. As opposition is suppressed and arbitrary arrests are common, President Kais Saied's authoritarian…
Libya’s transition is going nowhere fast – and by design.
The milestone of the civil war in Libya's 12th anniversary is overshadowed by a depressing reality. Despite a halt in episodic violence, division persists, preventing stability and unity. The ruling elite in Libya views disarmament and reconciliation talks cynically because…
Iraqi PM’s delicate balancing act
Iraq's political landscape, shaped by US-Iran rivalry, has seen shifts in influence. Despite expectations of US military expulsion under a pro-Iranian government, Prime Minister Al-Sudani has navigated a delicate balance by resisting Shiite factions' attempts…
The cost of missed opportunities in the Maghreb
The Arab Maghreb Union's dream of unity remains elusive due to political hostilities and external pressures. Despite calls for economic integration, skepticism among Maghreb countries persists, and tensions between Algeria and Morocco hinder progress…
Pluralism and the Arab world
The Arab world, with its diverse population and complex history, struggles to embrace pluralism amid sociopolitical challenges. Attempts at inclusive Arab identity often yield to exclusive elitism, hindering progress…
Libya faces the same old problems in the new year
Even though a new year has begun, Libya is still engulfed in an extended conflict reminiscent of previous turbulent years. The nation remains fragmented and vulnerable to manipulation by both internal and external forces as a result of the failure of attempts at political reconciliation.
Tunisia’s governors have to regain the trust of its governed
Tunisia's recent parliamentary election, aimed at legitimizing President Kais Saied, saw a dismal turnout, prompting calls for a reset in the country's democratization efforts. Despite opposition unity against Saied, challenges persist due to public disillusionment…
Strategic autonomy in Arab world’s sights
The Middle East and North Africa face unpredictable futures amidst internal and external challenges, including climate change, regional tensions, and socioeconomic pressures. Despite some macroeconomic optimism, disparities persist, with oil-importing countries…
Reclaiming a lost half-century in Libya
Amidst the tumultuous aftermath of the Qaddafi regime's collapse, Libya remains engulfed in conflict, with power struggles over oil wealth fueling the chaos. The country's fragmented state, marked by porous borders and persistent instability, contributes to trafficking and migration…
What next for Tunisia?
Amidst preparations for upcoming elections in Tunisia, President Kais Saied manoeuvres to consolidate power, wielding constitutional changes to favour his hyper-presidency. The alterations undermine legislative authority, cementing a system where the government answers solely to the presidency.
There is no clear end in sight to Libya’s deadlock
In a frustrating acknowledgment of Libya's perpetual deadlock, the UN's 10th special envoy, Abdoulaye Bathily, concedes the absence of a clear resolution. The international community's flawed approach, exemplified by the controversial ICC prosecutor's meeting with Haftar…
Algiers summit fails to paper over the cracks in Arab unity
The 31st Arab League summit in Algiers failed to deliver transformative shifts, highlighting the region's deep-seated divisions and challenges. While Algiers aimed to enhance Arab unity, the summit mostly centered on rhetoric rather than actionable solutions.
Iraq – is there hope at last?
In the wake of last year's elections, Iraq's journey towards stability has been marred by violence and political deadlock, escalated by endemic corruption and unemployment. However, Abdul Latif Rashid's recent election as president offers a glimmer of hope for change…